Reinsurance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2015
Effects of reinsurance on premiums and benefits
Premiums written and contract deposits, Gross Amount	$ 287,992	$ 311,047
Premiums written and contract deposits, Ceded to Other Companies	5,768	6,124
Premiums written and contract deposits, Assumed from Other Companies	945	812
Premiums written and contract deposits, Net Amount	283,169	305,735
Premiums and contract charges earned, Gross Amount	190,233	185,196
Premiums and contract charges earned, Ceded to Other Companies	5,769	6,315
Premiums and contract charges earned, Assumed from Other Companies	986	858
Premiums and contract charges earned, Net Amount	185,450	179,739
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Gross Amount	131,240	115,840
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Ceded to Other Companies	12,662	2,570
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Assumed from Other Companies	935	749
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Net Amount	$ 119,513	$ 114,019